E! Online has just revealed that Spring Awakening's original Wendla, GLEE star Lea Michele, is being courted for her old role in the upcoming film version of the show. E! reports that the film's director, McG, told them that they're hoping the film's schedule can coincide with her GLEE committments to make this happen.
He tells E!: "I love Lea; we've talked about it...When I first got turned onto the show she was in it so it's her voice that echoes in my heart. I really think she's wonderful and we'll see where it takes us."
No production timeline has been announced.
He adds: "We're talking to Lea Michele because she made the role of Wendla famous and we'll see if that pans out and works with the timing of her schedule on [Glee]."
For the full report, click here.
As BroadwayWorld reported back in 2010, Terminator Salvation director McG will bring the "Spring Awakening" to the big screen, developing it with original book and lyrics writer Steven Sater.
Set against the backdrop of a repressive and provincial late 19th century Germany, Spring Awakening tells the story of adolescent self-discovery and budding sexuality as seen through the eyes of three teenagers - Melchior, Moritz and Wendla. In a haunting and provocative story, Spring Awakening celebrates the journey from youth to adulthood.
Based on the 1891 Frank Wedekind play, Spring Awakening features an rock-inspired score by Duncan Sheik, book and lyrics by Steven Sater. The Broadway production was directed by Michael Mayer and choreographed by the award-winning Bill T. Jones.
On transferring from the off-Broadway Atlantic Theater, the original US production of Spring Awakening became an overnight sensation. It grossed over $50 million during its two year run at the Eugene O'Neill Theater and a US tour is booked through to 2010. By the end of 2009, productions will have opened in Japanese in Tokyo, Korean in Seoul and German in Vienna. 18 foreign productions are in preparation around the world.
Michele's Broadway career began at a young age when she appeared in productions such as Ragtime and Les Misérables. She originated the role of Wendla in the musical Spring Awakening and currently plays Rachel Berry in the Fox television series GLEE. She made her film debut in New Year's Eve starring alongside Ashton Kutcher in 2011.
For more information on the show, visit www.springawakening.com.
